Evaluating post-earthquake sexual and reproductive health services in Türkiye: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background More than 50 thousand people lost their lives in the earthquake that occurred in Türkiye in 2023. This study aimed to evaluate the Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services provided in Hatay province with qualitative methods. Methods The research type is phenomenological. Purposeful and snowball sampling was conducted. Data were collected through focus group interviews (healthcare workers and women) and in-depth interviews (academics, representatives of NGOs) and thematic content analysis was conducted. Results Six NGO representatives and 7 service providers participated in in-depth interviews, complemented by 4 focus group discussions with service providers and users. Emerging themes included SRH services, migration-related challenges, civil society and intersectoral collaboration, gender-related barriers, access to health services, living conditions in container cities, and service provision by NGOs like HASUDER (Association of Public Health Specialists). Participants reported that pre-existing gaps in SRH services were exacerbated after the earthquake, with major barriers including lack of privacy, poor hygiene, limited family planning access, low SRH awareness. Migration-related challenges such as language barriers, economic hardship, cultural isolation restricted service access. NGOs played a crucial role in addressing unmet needs. However, bureaucratic barriers and limited public sector collaboration were noted. Gender-related barriers, deteriorated living conditions, and widespread healthcare disruptions across all service levels further deepened vulnerabilities. The HASUDER mobile services were highlighted as critical in reaching women, adolescents, and migrants. Conclusions The earthquake deepened health system gaps, while NGOs became essential in bridging services and building resilience. Strengthened coordination, infrastructure, and inclusive SRH integration are urgently needed. Key messages • The earthquake exposed and deepened gaps in SRH services, emphasizing the need for sustainable, inclusive emergency health responses. • Community-based NGO interventions were vital in bridging service gaps and supporting resilience.